Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A mirror display apparatus comprising: a monitor display device; and a mirror optical element disposed on a front surface side of a display surface of the monitor display device, wherein the mirror optical element is an element in which reflectance and transmittance vary in opposite directions to each other by electric driving so that a state of the element is changeable among a transmission state having a relatively low reflectance and a relatively high transmittance, a reflection mirror state having a relatively high reflectance and a relatively low transmittance, and a reflectance-reduced reflection mirror state that is in between the transmission state and the reflection mirror state, in a stepwise or stepless manner and a reversible manner, the mirror display apparatus has a monitor mode and a mirror mode as operation modes, the monitor mode is a mode in which the monitor display device is set to a display state and the mirror optical element is set to the transmission state, the mirror mode is a mode in which the monitor display device is set to a non-display state and the mirror optical element is set to the reflection mirror state or the reflectance-reduced reflection mirror state, the mirror display apparatus further comprises a temperature sensor and a control circuit, in the monitor mode, the control circuit adjusts luminance of the monitor display device based on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor to perform temperature control of the monitor display device, or adjust a driving state of the monitor display device driven by a display signal based on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor to perform temperature compensation control related to display quality of the monitor display device, or perform both the temperature control and the temperature compensation control related to display quality, and in the mirror mode in which the mirror optical element is in the reflectance-reduced reflection mirror state, the control circuit adjusts a driving state of the mirror optical element based on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor to perform temperature compensation control of the reflectance of the mirror optical element.
A mirror display apparatus combines a monitor display device with a tunable mirror optical element positioned in front of the display surface. The mirror optical element dynamically adjusts its reflectance and transmittance in opposite directions through electrical control, enabling seamless transitions between a transmission state (high transmittance, low reflectance), a reflection mirror state (high reflectance, low transmittance), and an intermediate reflectance-reduced reflection mirror state. The apparatus operates in two modes: a monitor mode, where the display is active and the mirror is transparent, and a mirror mode, where the display is off and the mirror is reflective or partially reflective. A temperature sensor and control circuit regulate the system. In monitor mode, the control circuit adjusts the display's luminance or compensates for temperature-induced display quality issues. In mirror mode, when the mirror is in the reflectance-reduced state, the control circuit fine-tunes the mirror's reflectance to counteract temperature effects. This design integrates a display and mirror into a single device with adaptive optical properties and thermal management.
2. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature sensor is installed on the monitor display device.
A mirror display apparatus includes a monitor display device and a temperature sensor. The monitor display device is configured to display images and function as a mirror when not displaying images. The temperature sensor is installed on the monitor display device to measure the temperature of the display surface. This allows the apparatus to monitor environmental conditions, such as ambient temperature, which can affect display performance or user comfort. The temperature sensor provides real-time data that can be used to adjust display settings, such as brightness or contrast, to maintain optimal viewing conditions. Additionally, the sensor can detect overheating, triggering cooling mechanisms or alerts to prevent damage to the display. The apparatus may also include a control unit that processes the temperature data and adjusts the display accordingly. This design ensures reliable operation and extends the lifespan of the display by preventing thermal stress. The temperature sensor's placement on the monitor display device ensures accurate readings of the display surface temperature, improving overall system efficiency and user experience.
3. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the mirror optical element is disposed on a front surface of a frame of the monitor display device so as to be in close contact with the front surface, and is integrated with the monitor display device.
This invention relates to a mirror display apparatus that combines a mirror with a monitor display device, addressing the need for space-saving and multifunctional display solutions. The apparatus includes a monitor display device with a frame and a mirror optical element positioned on the front surface of the frame, in close contact with it. The mirror optical element is integrated with the monitor display device, allowing the apparatus to function as both a mirror and a display. The integration ensures a seamless and compact design, eliminating the need for separate mirror and display units. The mirror optical element can be a reflective surface that overlays or is embedded within the monitor display device, enabling users to switch between mirror and display modes. This design is particularly useful in applications where space is limited, such as in bathrooms, dressing rooms, or smart home devices, where a single device can serve multiple purposes. The close contact between the mirror optical element and the frame ensures stability and durability, while the integration simplifies installation and reduces clutter. The apparatus may also include additional features, such as touch-sensitive controls or sensors, to enhance functionality and user interaction.
4. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature sensor is a variable resistance type temperature sensor, the mirror display apparatus includes a temperature detection circuit, and the temperature detection circuit converts a resistance value of the temperature sensor into a voltage of a value corresponding to the resistance value, and inputs the voltage to the control circuit.
A mirror display apparatus includes a variable resistance type temperature sensor and a temperature detection circuit. The temperature sensor measures ambient temperature by varying its resistance in response to temperature changes. The temperature detection circuit converts the resistance value of the sensor into a corresponding voltage signal, which is then input to a control circuit. The control circuit adjusts the display brightness or other functions based on the detected temperature to optimize performance. The apparatus may also include a display panel, a reflective layer, and a backlight unit, where the reflective layer reflects external light to enhance visibility. The control circuit regulates the backlight unit's brightness based on ambient light conditions detected by an ambient light sensor. The temperature detection circuit ensures accurate temperature readings by converting the sensor's resistance into a precise voltage signal, allowing the control circuit to make appropriate adjustments. This design improves the mirror display's reliability and efficiency by dynamically responding to environmental conditions.
5. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the monitor display device is a liquid crystal display device, and in the monitor mode, the control circuit adjusts luminance of a backlight of the liquid crystal display device based on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor to thereby perform the temperature control of the monitor display device, or adjusts a driving state of the liquid crystal display device driven by the display signal based on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor to thereby perform the temperature compensation control related to display quality of the liquid crystal display device, or performs both the temperature control and the temperature compensation control related to display quality.
A mirror display apparatus incorporates a liquid crystal display (LCD) device that functions as a monitor display. The apparatus includes a temperature sensor to detect ambient or operational temperature and a control circuit that regulates the LCD device based on the detected temperature. In monitor mode, the control circuit adjusts the backlight luminance of the LCD to maintain optimal performance, ensuring stable display quality under varying temperature conditions. Additionally, the control circuit can modify the driving state of the LCD, such as adjusting voltage or timing signals, to compensate for temperature-induced display quality degradation, such as color shifts or response time variations. The system may perform either temperature control, temperature compensation for display quality, or both simultaneously. This approach enhances reliability and visual consistency in environments with fluctuating temperatures, addressing issues like backlight flickering, color accuracy, and response time inconsistencies in LCD-based mirror displays. The apparatus is particularly useful in automotive or industrial applications where environmental conditions can significantly impact display performance.
6. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the mirror optical element includes a TN-type liquid crystal panel in which a reflection type polarizer is disposed on a back side, and in the mirror mode in which the mirror optical element is in the reflectance-reduced reflection mirror state, the control circuit adjusts an effective driving voltage of the TN-type liquid crystal panel based on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor to thereby perform the temperature compensation control of the reflectance of the TN-type liquid crystal panel.
This invention relates to a mirror display apparatus incorporating a temperature-compensated liquid crystal panel for adjustable reflectance. The apparatus includes a mirror optical element with a TN-type (twisted nematic) liquid crystal panel and a reflection-type polarizer on its back side. The liquid crystal panel can switch between a high-reflectance mirror state and a low-reflectance state, enabling the apparatus to function as a display when the reflectance is reduced. A control circuit adjusts the effective driving voltage of the liquid crystal panel based on temperature readings from a temperature sensor to compensate for temperature-induced variations in reflectance. This ensures consistent performance across different operating temperatures, maintaining optimal display quality and mirror functionality. The temperature compensation control dynamically adjusts the voltage to counteract the effects of temperature changes on the liquid crystal panel's optical properties, particularly its reflectance in the low-reflectance mode. This solution addresses the challenge of maintaining stable reflectance in variable thermal conditions, improving the reliability of the mirror display apparatus in diverse environments.
7. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the mirror display apparatus is an on-vehicle mirror, and the monitor display device displays a video image of a vehicle rear side captured by a rear camera in the monitor mode, and the mirror optical element reflects an image of the vehicle rear side in the mirror mode.
This invention relates to an on-vehicle mirror display apparatus designed to enhance rear visibility for drivers. The apparatus combines a mirror optical element with a monitor display device, allowing it to function in two modes: a mirror mode and a monitor mode. In mirror mode, the apparatus operates as a conventional rearview mirror, reflecting an image of the vehicle's rear side to provide a direct view. In monitor mode, the apparatus displays a video image of the vehicle's rear side captured by a rear camera, offering an electronic view. The transition between these modes enables drivers to switch between a traditional mirror view and a camera-enhanced display, improving visibility in low-light or obstructed conditions. The apparatus integrates seamlessly into a vehicle's existing mirror system, ensuring compatibility with standard automotive designs while enhancing safety and situational awareness. This dual-functionality addresses the limitations of traditional mirrors, such as glare, blind spots, and reduced visibility in adverse weather or lighting conditions.
8. A control method of a mirror display apparatus in which a mirror optical element is disposed on a front surface side of a monitor display device so as to allow an operation mode of the mirror display apparatus to be switched between a monitor mode and a mirror mode for use, the mirror optical element being an element in which reflectance and transmittance vary in opposite directions to each other by electric driving so that a state of the element is changeable among a transmission state having a relatively low reflectance and a relatively high transmittance, a reflection mirror state having a relatively high reflectance and a relatively low transmittance, and a reflectance-reduced reflection mirror state that is in between the transmission state and the reflection mirror state, in a stepwise or stepless manner and a reversible manner, the monitor mode being a mode in which the monitor display device is set to a display state and the mirror optical element is set to the transmission state, the mirror mode being a mode in which the monitor display device is set to a non-display state and the mirror optical element is set to the reflection mirror state or the reflectance-reduced reflection mirror state, the control method comprising: installing a temperature sensor to the mirror display apparatus; and in the monitor mode, using the temperature sensor for temperature control of the monitor display device, or using the temperature sensor for temperature compensation control related to display quality of the monitor display device, or using the temperature sensor for both the temperature control and the temperature compensation control related to display quality, and in the mirror mode in which the mirror optical element is in the reflectance-reduced reflection mirror state, using the temperature sensor for temperature compensation control of the reflectance of the mirror optical element.
This invention relates to a control method for a mirror display apparatus that combines a monitor display device with a dynamically adjustable mirror optical element. The apparatus can switch between a monitor mode, where the display is active and the mirror element is transparent, and a mirror mode, where the display is off and the mirror element reflects light. The mirror optical element can vary its reflectance and transmittance in opposite directions, transitioning between a fully transparent state, a fully reflective state, and intermediate states with adjustable reflectance. The control method involves integrating a temperature sensor to monitor and regulate the system. In monitor mode, the sensor adjusts the display's temperature for optimal performance or compensates for temperature-related display quality issues. In mirror mode, when the mirror element is in a partially reflective state, the sensor compensates for temperature-induced changes in reflectance. This ensures consistent display quality and mirror performance across varying environmental conditions. The method enhances the versatility of the apparatus by maintaining functionality in both operational modes while accounting for thermal variations.
9. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature sensor is installed on an inside of a frame of the monitor display device.
A mirror display apparatus includes a monitor display device with a reflective surface and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is positioned inside the frame of the monitor display device to measure ambient temperature. The apparatus is designed for use in environments where temperature monitoring is critical, such as automotive or industrial applications. The reflective surface of the monitor display device allows it to function as a mirror while also displaying information. The temperature sensor provides real-time temperature data, which can be used to adjust display settings or trigger alerts based on environmental conditions. This integration ensures accurate temperature readings without requiring additional external sensors, improving system efficiency and reliability. The apparatus combines the functionality of a mirror with temperature monitoring, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying installation. The temperature sensor's placement inside the frame ensures it is protected from external elements while maintaining accurate measurements. This design is particularly useful in applications where space is limited, such as vehicle rearview mirrors or compact industrial displays. The apparatus may also include additional features, such as adjustable display brightness or automatic dimming, to enhance usability in varying temperature conditions.
10. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature sensor is installed on an outside of a frame of the monitor display device.
A mirror display apparatus includes a monitor display device with a reflective surface and a temperature sensor mounted on the outside of the frame of the monitor display device. The apparatus is designed for use in environments where temperature monitoring is critical, such as automotive or industrial applications. The temperature sensor detects ambient temperature changes, allowing the system to adjust display settings or alert users to extreme conditions. The reflective surface of the monitor display device can be switched between a mirror mode and a display mode, providing versatility in functionality. The temperature sensor's placement on the frame ensures accurate readings without obstructing the reflective or display surface. This design enhances safety and performance by integrating environmental monitoring with a dual-function display system. The apparatus may also include additional features such as a control unit to process temperature data and adjust system operations accordingly. The overall system improves user experience by maintaining optimal display conditions and providing real-time environmental feedback.
11. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature sensor is installed on an upper side portion of a frame of the monitor display device.
A mirror display apparatus includes a monitor display device with a reflective surface and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is positioned on the upper side portion of the frame of the monitor display device. The apparatus is designed for use in environments where temperature monitoring is critical, such as in automotive or industrial applications. The reflective surface of the monitor display device allows it to function as a mirror while also displaying information. The temperature sensor provides real-time temperature data, which can be used to adjust the display or trigger alerts based on environmental conditions. The placement of the sensor on the upper side of the frame ensures accurate temperature readings while maintaining the device's aesthetic and functional integrity. This design enhances the versatility of the mirror display apparatus by integrating temperature monitoring with visual display capabilities, improving safety and usability in various applications.
12. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature sensor is installed on a side portion of a frame of the monitor display device.
A mirror display apparatus includes a monitor display device with a reflective surface and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is positioned on a side portion of the frame of the monitor display device. The apparatus is designed for use in environments where temperature monitoring is critical, such as automotive or industrial applications. The reflective surface of the monitor display device allows it to function as a mirror while also displaying information. The temperature sensor provides real-time temperature data, which can be used to adjust the display or trigger alerts based on environmental conditions. The placement of the temperature sensor on the side portion of the frame ensures accurate temperature readings without obstructing the reflective surface or displayed information. This design integrates temperature monitoring into a compact, dual-function device, enhancing functionality in applications where space is limited. The apparatus may also include additional features such as adjustable reflectivity, touch-sensitive controls, or connectivity options for data transmission. The temperature sensor's placement and integration with the display device improve usability and reliability in temperature-sensitive environments.
13. The mirror display apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the temperature sensor is installed on a lower side portion of a frame of the monitor display device.
A mirror display apparatus includes a monitor display device with a frame and a temperature sensor installed on a lower side portion of the frame. The apparatus is designed for use in environments where temperature monitoring is critical, such as automotive or industrial applications. The temperature sensor detects temperature changes in the vicinity of the display, ensuring optimal performance and preventing overheating. The frame supports the monitor display device, providing structural integrity and housing the temperature sensor. The sensor's placement on the lower side portion of the frame ensures accurate temperature readings while maintaining a compact and unobtrusive design. This configuration allows for real-time monitoring and adjustment of the display's operating conditions, enhancing reliability and longevity. The apparatus may also include additional features such as a reflective surface for dual functionality as a mirror and display, further optimizing space utilization. The temperature sensor's strategic placement ensures it is not obstructed by other components, providing consistent and reliable temperature data. This design is particularly useful in applications where environmental conditions can affect display performance, such as in vehicles or outdoor settings.
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October 20, 2020
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